Mycologists and scientists have just released research that shows how a fungal zombie pandemic would be only 3 steps away from reality, according to the report. The main infection vector lies in fungus that has adapted to networks of ants, essentially taking over their bodies, enabling them to control the ant’s behavior and find new places for the infection to spread faster.

However, it is important to note that this potential risk is still theoretical at this point and far from reality.

According to mycologist experts, there are actually 3 steps that could lead to fungal zombies becoming a reality. Firstly, a natural host needs to be identified, if an animal species like deer or wild boar were to become infected with a specific type of fungus, then it could create the basis for something monstrous. Secondly, the fungi need to be genetically engineered in order to make them infectious and hardier than other existing types of fungi.

Lastly, this type of fungus must have efficient transmission mechanisms so it can spread readily through the environment. Combined together, these 3 steps can make fungal zombies a potential threat within our lifetime.

If these 3 steps are followed and the species becomes infected, then we could potentially witness the dead coming back to life. While this may seem like something from a horror movie, it’s an issue of concern for researchers as it poses a potential threat to native wildlife populations.

Thankfully, scientists are working hard on understanding how these fungal zombies can be contained and prevented from spreading. With further research, hopefully a way will be found to keep these walking fungal zombies at bay.